Young children in Ontario will soon be eligible for an extra layer of protection against COVID-19.
The provincial government announced on Wednesday that it has expanded eligibility for the first COVID-19 booster dose to children between the ages of five and 11.
Starting on September 1, parents and caregivers will be able to book an appointment for a pediatric booster dose. It is recommended that eligible children receive the booster dose at least six months after their last dose of the vaccine.
Appointments can be booked through the COVID-19 vaccination portal or by calling the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre. The booster dose can also be booked through local public health units, along with participating health care providers and pharmacies.
“Staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters is still the best tool to keep people healthy and out of hospitals, and to ensure Ontario’s economy stays open,” said Sylvia Jones, deputy premier and minister of health, in a news release. “Expanding access to boosters for ages five to 11 will give parents more opportunities to protect themselves, their families and their communities this fall as kids go back to school and as people are spending more time indoors.”
Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kieran Moore has also updated the province’s public health guidance to manage COVID-19 during the respiratory illness season this fall.
Anyone who has been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 is no longer advised to isolate. However, health officials ask that those who have been a close contact continue to self-monitor for symptoms and wear a mask for 10 days while in public.
As well, anyone experiencing COVID symptoms is urged to stay home from school, work and social events until their condition improves. Taking a rapid antigen test or a PCR test, if eligible, is also recommended. Wearing a mask is also encouraged for 10 days after symptoms have abated.
